The search is on for the Local Heroes of Hillingdon 2011 - Laraine Smith, Principal of Uxbridge College and Shujaul Azam, Content Manager of the Uxbridge Gazette and Leader, launch the competition.

Inspirational people in the community are once again being asked to step into the spotlight, as the Uxbridge Gazette and Leader, together with Uxbridge College, launches the ninth The search is on for the Local Heroes of Hillingdon 2011 - Laraine Smith, Principal of Uxbridge College and Shujaul Azam, Content Manager of the Uxbridge Gazette and Leader, launch the competition.

Inspirational people in the community are once again being asked to step into the spotlight, as the Uxbridge Gazette and Leader, together with Uxbridge College, launches the ninth Local Heroes awards.

Our annual competition, which began on 30 March, recognises the incredible bravery, commitment and dedication shown by unsung heroes across the borough, who have triumphed against the odds or put others' needs before their own.

Anyone who lives, works or volunteers in Hillingdon can be nominated in the five following categories: Outstanding Young Person; Star Carer; Courageous Citizen; Fabulous Fundraiser and Community Champion.

An overall Hero of Hillingdon award will be given to the category winner the judges feel is most deserving of the accolade.

So if you know someone who deserves credit for doing a good deed, nominate them now by filling in the form in the Gazette and Leader or online at www.uxbridgegazette.co.uk/heroes.

The closing date for entries is Friday 27 May at 5.30pm and the judging panel will make its decision shortly afterwards.

Short-listed nominees will be invited to a glittering gala awards evening at Hayes Community Campus in Coldharbour Lane, Hayes.

Category winners will receive a trophy and £200 cash, while the Hero of Hillingdon will win a further £500 and trophy. Runners up will each receive £50.

Former army medic Hamish McGregor was crowned the Hero of Hillingdon in 2009, after setting up the first ever Help for Heroes shop in Uxbridge, raising an impressive £25,000 for British Forces in just three days.

Mr McGregor, who served in Northern Ireland, was rendered speechless after scooping both the overall title and Fabulous Fundraiser. The father-of-one was also recognised for tirelessly working to help others, despite having to overcome a great deal of personal anguish.

A year before, Multiple Sclerosis sufferer, Nimira Patel was named Hero of Hillingdon, after voluntarily running Little Angels playgroup, at Harlington Baptist Church.

She was also praised for her efforts to support others in the community by offering a listening ear and giving helpful advice, in addition to taking care of other people's children.

Uxbridge College Principal, Laraine Smith, said: "The annual Local Heroes competition offers a unique opportunity to acknowledge some of the amazing work that goes on in our community.

"There are so many people in Hillingdon quietly making an enormous difference to the lives of others, and it is a real privilege to find out more about them and give them some recognition."

Multimedia Content Manager of the Uxbridge Gazette and Leader, Shujaul Azam, added: "It's always a great honour to celebrate the work of the selfless unsung heroes of our community. Once again we look forward to honouring those who've made a significant contribution in improving the lives of others. It's an inspiration to all to read the amazing stories of courage, caring, dedication and bravery. If you know of anyone that has gone beyond the cause let us know."

More details for nominations

Outstanding Young Person: Anyone aged 16 or under who has made an outstanding achievement or impressive effort, supported others or enthusiastically taken part in sports or an event.

Star Carer: Someone who has selflessly looked after a friend, relative, neighbour or others.

Courageous Citizen: Someone who has triumphed over adversity, achieved something against the odds, or shown courage or determination.

Fabulous Fundraiser: An individual, group, organisation or business which has raised money for a deserving cause.

Community Champion: An individual, group or organisation which has helped or supported the community.

The Hero of Hillingdon: Selected from any of the above category winners.

To nominate your local hero fill in the form in the Gazette and Leader each week or online at www.uxbridgegazette.co.uk/heroes. Alternatively, email Gazette reporter Siba Matti at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with details.

*Please note that under competition rules, staff from the Uxbridge Gazette and Leader and students and staff at Uxbridge College, cannot be nominated.

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